Improvement In Strength Research Articles

Can Blood Flow Restriction Be the Key to Reducing Quadriceps Weakness in the Early and Mid-Phases After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction with a Hamstring Graft? A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background: Injury to the anterior cruciate ligament is one of the most common knee injuries. Following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, strength deficits and reduced quadriceps and hamstring muscle mass are common. Traditional strengthening protocols recommend the use of heavy loads. However, following surgery, heavy-load exercises are contraindicated to protect the joint and graft. Blood flow restriction resistance training is an alternative that optimizes muscle recovery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of blood flow restriction resistance training on muscle mass and strength after ACLR. Methods: The Pubmed, Cochrane Library, and PEDro databases were used to constitute the corpus of this systematic review. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed with the Cochrane Collaboration’s analysis grid. Results: Thirty-four articles were identified in the initial search, and five randomized controlled trials were included in this review. Not all studies reported significant results regarding strength and muscle mass. Two of these studies observed a significant improvement in strength associated with blood flow restriction resistance training compared with the control group. A significant increase in muscle mass was observed in one study. Conclusions: The blood flow restriction resistance training method shows superior efficacy to training without occlusion, yet this device has not been shown to be more effective than heavy-load resistance training in terms of muscular strength and muscle mass. Blood flow restriction resistance training shows superior efficacy in both these variables when used with low loads. However, there are still few random controlled trials on this subject, and this review presents their limitations and biases. Future research is needed on guidelines for the application of blood flow restriction resistance training in clinical populations.

First-in-human study of epidural spinal cord stimulation in individuals with spinal muscular atrophy.

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an inherited neurodegenerative disease causing motoneuron dysfunction, muscle weakness, fatigue and early mortality. Three new therapies can slow disease progression, enabling people to survive albeit with lingering motor impairments. Indeed, weakness and fatigue are still among patients' main concerns. Here we show that epidural spinal cord stimulation (SCS) improved motoneuron function, thereby increasing strength, endurance and gait quality, in three adults with type 3 SMA. Preclinical works demonstrated that SMA motoneurons show low firing rates because of a loss of excitatory input from primary sensory afferents. In the present study, we hypothesized that correcting this loss with electrical stimulation of the sensory afferents could improve motoneuron function. To test this hypothesis, we implanted three adults with SMA with epidural electrodes over the lumbosacral spinal cord, targeting sensory axons of the legs. We delivered SCS for 4 weeks, 2 h per day during motor tasks. Our intervention led to improvements in strength (up to +180%), gait quality (mean step length: +40%) and endurance (mean change in 6-minute walk test: +26 m), paralleled by increased motoneuron firing rates. These changes persisted even when SCS was turned OFF. Notably, no adverse events related to the stimulation were reported. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05430113 .

Impact of BRACTS exercises on muscular strength in eumenorrheic women

The sex steroid hormones significantly impact women’s physiology. Therefore, recently developed integrated exercises consisting of Bending, Roll-ups, Arm swings with loads, Crunches, Tandem walks, and Squats (BRACTS) were formulated. It was the exercise approach that required minimal equipment and was cost-effective and practical for implementation across a broad spectrum of women. So, this study aims to evaluate the effects of BRACTS exercises on strength during different phases of the menstrual cycle in eumenorrheic women. This is a two-armed parallel design, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial following Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) guidelines, and the study protocol is based on Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials (SPIRIT) guidelines. Participants were randomly allocated with a 1:1 ratio into Group A (control group) and Group B (treatment group). Group A was given an educational program related to menstrual hygiene and active lifestyle maintenance with 20 min walk 3 times a week for 16 weeks, while group B was given an educational program related to menstrual hygiene along with BRACTS exercises of 50 min for 3 times per week for 16 weeks. Assessments were done at baseline, midline, and end of the therapy using SPSS version 25. The experimental group demonstrated a notable improvement in muscular strength in follicular, mid-cycle, and luteal phases, with Cohen’s d values for left and right hand grip strength to be maximum in follicular phase while for left and right quadriceps, left and gastro-soleus showed maximum Cohen’s d value in mid-cycle phase of menstrual cycle. The mixed model ANOVA indicates statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) between the two groups, with influence from menstrual cycle phases. So, the BRACTS exercise protocol significantly improves muscular strength across different phases of the menstrual cycle in eumenorrheic women, demonstrating its efficacy as a cost-effective and practical approach. The trial was registered on clinicaltrials.gov for registration with ID: NCT05460741 on 05/31/2022 and was last released on 04/29/2024.Trial registration number: NCT05460741.

Development of polyvinyl chloride composites with enhanced mechanical properties using modified ceramic particles

Abstract The integration of ceramic particles into polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composites offers a promising approach and has garnered significant attention due to their potential for enhancing mechanical properties. This work investigated the development and characterization of PVC composites enhanced with modified ceramic particles. Ceramic particulates, clays, and other mineral rock materials (non-plastics) with activators were processed and incorporated into the PVC matrix at varying weight percentages (5–30 wt%) and particle sizes (40–80 µm). The ceramic–PVC mixtures were synthesized using hot compression molding under specific conditions of 75 MPa pressure and 160 °C temperature. Mechanical properties’ testing was conducted using ASTM D3039 standards, covering flexural, tensile, hardness, and impact tests for comprehensive characterization. Microstructural analysis was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results indicated that ceramic reinforcement significantly enhanced the mechanical properties of PVC composites, with notable improvements in flexural strength, tensile strength, hardness, and impact resistance. Moreover, the impact of particle size was crucial, as microstructural analysis revealed improved interfacial bonding between ceramic particles and PVC matrix, particularly with finer particle sizes (40 µm), suggesting better stress transfer. The findings demonstrated that including modified ceramic particles can substantially improve the performance of PVC composites, making them suitable as high-strength construction tiles and impact-resistant flooring. Graphical abstract

Multi-omics uncovers immune-modulatory molecules in plasma contributing to resistance exercise-ameliorated locomotor disability after incomplete spinal cord injury

BackgroundExercise rehabilitation therapy has garnered widespread recognition for its beneficial effects on the restoration of locomotor function in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). Notably, resistance exercise has demonstrated significant improvements in muscle strength, coordination, and overall functional recovery. However, to optimize clinical management and mimic exercise-like effects, it is imperative to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the molecular alterations that underlie these positive effects.MethodsWe conducted a randomized controlled clinical trial investigating the effects of resistance exercise therapy for incomplete SCI. We integrated the analysis of plasma proteomics and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) transcriptomics to explore the molecular and cellular changes induced by resistance exercise. Subsequently, we established a weight-loaded ladder-climbing mouse model to mimic the physiological effects of resistance exercise, and we analyzed the plasma proteome and metabolome, as well as the transcriptomes of PBMC and muscle tissue. Lastly, to confirm the transmissibility of the neuroprotective effects induced by resistance exercise, we intravenously injected plasma obtained from exercised male mice into SCI female mice during the non-acute phase.ResultsPlasma proteomic and PBMC transcriptomic profiling underscored the notable involvement of the complement pathways and humoral immune response in the process of restoring locomotor function following SCI in the human trial. Moreover, it was emphasized that resistance exercise interventions could effectively modulate these pathways. Through employing plasma proteomic profiling and transcriptomic profiling of PBMC and muscle tissues in mice, our study revealed immunomodulatory responses that parallel those observed in human trials. In addition, our analysis of plasma metabolomics revealed an enhancement in lipid metabolism following resistance exercise. We observed that resistance exercise plasma exhibited significant effects in ameliorating locomotor disability after SCI via reducing demyelination and inhibiting neuronal apoptosis.ConclusionsOur investigation elucidates the molecular alterations associated with resistance exercise therapy promoting recovery of locomotor function following incomplete SCI. Moreover, we demonstrate the direct neuroprotective effects delivered via exercise plasma injection, which facilitates spinal cord repair. Mechanistically, the comprehensive multi-omics analysis involving both human and mice reveals that the principal constituents responsible for the observed neuroprotective effects within the plasma are predominantly immunoregulatory factors, warranting further experimental validation.Trial registrationThe study was retrospectively registered on 17 July, 2024, in Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (No.: ChiCTR2400087038) at https://www.chictr.org.cn/.

Experimental Investigation and Analysis of Hybrid Laminates

Hybrid composites have gained significant attention from researchers due to their potential as reinforcement materials for composites. This is primarily because of the numerous advantages they offer, including low density, low cost, renewability, biodegradability, and environmental safety, along with mechanical properties that are comparable to those of synthetic fiber composites. In this study, hybrid composites made from natural fibers and glass fibers were fabricated using epoxy resin and a combination of the hand lay-up method and the cold press method. Specimens were cut from the fabricated laminate according to ASTM standards for various tests, including tensile, flexural, and impact tests. The woven fiberglass hybrid composites demonstrated a notable improvement in tensile strength. Consequently, these high-performance hybrid composites display enhanced mechanical characteristics and have wide-ranging engineering applications in industries such as transportation, aeronautics, naval, and automotive.

Rheological and mechanical properties of self-compacting concrete with recycled coarse aggregate from the demolition of large panel system buildings

Abstract Self-compacting concrete (SCC), which can be placed and consolidated under its weight without any vibration effort, was first developed in 1988 to achieve durable concrete structures. Since then, a lot of research has been conducted in order to reduce the consumption of raw materials in SCC. Although coarse aggregate and design methods are known to influence concrete properties, there are still knowledge gaps that need to be filled. This study uses a new source of recycled coarse aggregate (RCA), namely the concrete panels of old large panel system buildings demolished in urban areas. The aim of the study is to verify the effect of this aggregate on the rheological and mechanical properties of SCC. To enhance the properties of SCC, the modified equivalent mortar volume (mEMV) method of designing a concrete mix was used. It has not been verified before for SCC, and a literature review suggests it has the potential to eliminate the drawbacks of ordinary equivalent mortar volume methods. The SCC that was used in the study is characterized by having a high viscosity and an average consistency. The hardened SCC used in the research was highly impacted by its mix design and RCA content. Both compressive strength and abrasion resistance decreased when the RCA content increased. However, using the mEMV method resulted in a 10 and 1% improvement in compressive strength and abrasion resistance, respectively.

The Effect of High-Pressure Hydrostatic Extrusion on Mechanical Properties of Printed with Fused Deposition Modeling PLA and PLA-Diatomaceous Earth Composites

Three-dimensional printing enables rapid prototyping, customization, and on-demand production. Polylactide is a popular biopolymer filament used in 3D printing. However, due to its brittleness and low mechanical strength, it often needs to be reinforced with filler particles. Diatomaceous earth shows great potential as a filler material due to its abundant and natural occurrence, biocompatibility, and environmental friendliness, as well as its excellent mechanical properties. Cold hydrostatic extrusion was used to improve the compressive strength of 3D-printed parts. Both neat and reinforced with 10% diatomaceous earth filaments were used to 3D print cylindrical billets, followed by post-processing using hydrostatic extrusion. X-ray microtomography showed a significant reduction in total and open porosity and average pore size, from ~20 µm to less than 10 µm in the Polylactide (PLA) and Diatomaceous (DE) composite. Compression tests showed a significant improvement in the compressive strength of PLA from ~60 MPa to ~100 MPa, while PLA with DE achieved an impressive almost twofold increase to 80–120 MPa. This was attributed to a reduction in pore size, as well as pore closure, which mitigates crack initiation in semi-brittle PLA. In addition, it has been proposed that hydro extrusion-induced structural rearrangement is an important strengthening factor.

Stable improvement in hand muscle strength in incomplete spinal cord injury patients by long-term paired associative stimulation—a case series study

IntroductionPaired associative stimulation (PAS) consists of high-intensity transcranial magnetic stimulation and high-frequency electric stimulation of the peripheral nerve (high-PAS) and can induce plastic changes in spared corticospinal connections in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI), leading to the restoration of motor function. The objective of this study was to investigate the long-term effect of high-PAS on hand function and muscle strength.Materials and methodsHigh-PAS was applied to four patients with chronic, incomplete, cervical-level SCI multiple times a week for as long as hand muscle strength improved. The median, ulnar, and radial nerves of one hand chosen by the patient were stimulated. Patients underwent Medical Research Council (MRC) manual muscle testing monthly during the stimulation period and were followed for 12 months after the stimulation.ResultsStrength increased in both the stimulated and non-stimulated hands. In muscles innervated by stimulated nerves, strength increased on average by 24.5% from pre- to post-conditions (p = 0.013). The achieved strength level was maintained for a minimum of 6 months after completing the stimulations. Patients were also evaluated with motor point (MP) integrity testing to estimate the extent of lower motor neuron damage. High MP integrity testing scores (low extent of damage) correlated positively with good MRC outcomes of the stimulated hand after high-PAS (r = 0.52, p ≤ 0.001).ConclusionHigh-PAS may improve muscle strength of both the stimulated and contralateral sides. Stable results were achieved when stimulation was delivered as long as MRC score improved progressively. The optimal duration of high-PAS treatment remains unknown.Clinical trial registrationclinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT03045744.

Predicting low ionospheric parameters and low frequency sky wave propagation strength using machine learning

Studying the propagation prediction of low-frequency (LF) radio waves is very significant for supporting applications in fixed and mobile long-distance communication, remote navigation, and timing service. Therefore, to enhance the predicting accuracy of LF sky wave propagation, we proposed an improved method based on the machine learning method. Firstly, we employed a machine learning method to create a prediction model for the critical frequency of the low ionospheric E layer (foE), which significantly affects LF sky wave propagation. Secondly, we enhanced the method for predicting LF sky wave propagation based on the model of low ionospheric parameters. By comparing the measured data from East Asia and predicted data based on the wave-hop theory, the proposed method achieved a 6.16% improvement in LF sky wave field strength.

Augmentation of the Ulnar Motor Nerve Repair with Anterior Interosseous Nerve in High Ulnar Nerve Palsy: Our Clinical Experience

AbstractFollowing proximal ulnar nerve repair, there will be a delay in innervating the distally placed intrinsic muscles of the hand, which can lead to irreversible damage to the intrinsic motor end plates. Supercharging with end-to-side anterior interosseous nerve (AIN) transfer can augment the results of nerve repair by babysitting the motor end plates and thus preventing its denervation. Recently, there have been discussions regarding whether AIN, which contains only 500 axons, can augment the ulnar motor branch, which contains approximately 1,500 axons. In one of our cases, electromyogram following surgery showed activity in the first dorsal interossei and abductor digiti minimi without any signs of reinnervation in the flexor carpi ulnaris. This may support the contribution of AIN in supplying the intrinsic muscles. Considering the low morbidity of the procedure and potential improvements in muscle strength, all patients undergoing ulnar nerve repair in high ulnar nerve palsies can be counseled to undergo an end-to-side AIN transfer.

The effect of glow discharge air plasma surface treatment on mechanical properties of natural fiber reinforced-epoxy sustainable biocomposites

ABSTRACT Natural fiber composites are widely explored sustainable alternative to conventional composites in many applications. However, since they are weak compared to conventional composites, various surface treatments are adopted to improve their overall mechanical properties. The effect of glow discharge air plasma treatment of banana and pineapple leaf (PALF) natural fibers is investigated and presented in this study. Fibres were treated for different time periods, their surface were analysed, and composite laminates with standalone and hybrid were fabricated. Tensile, flexural and impact tests in different combinations of reinforcements were carried out. Spectroscopic, thermal and microscopic characterisations like Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) were used to study the fibre surface, 3D digital microscope was used to study the fractography and a water absorption test was carried out to study the hydrophilicity were carried out to characterise the fibre surface and the laminates. Significant variations in thermal stability and improvements in tensile strength (even up to 275%) and flexural properties were observed. This investigation revealed the cause of the same was due to the enhancement in crystallinity, mechanical interlocking and improved fibre-matrix adhesion, which was evident from characterizations.

Corrosion and degradation behavior of MCSTE-Processed AZ31 magnesium alloy

This study aims to investigate the impact of multi-channel spiral twist extrusion (MCSTE) on the corrosion and degradation properties of biodegradable AZ31 (Mg-3Al-1Zn, wt.%) magnesium alloy. Square AZ31 billets were processed using route C-MCSTE (with a 180° rotation between passes) at 250°C and with a ram speed of 10 mm/min for up to 8 passes. The extrusion process was conducted via dies with twist angles of 30° and 40°. The microstructural changes and grain size distribution in the alloy were determined with a Scanning Electron Microscopy equipped with Electron Backscatter Diffraction. Electrochemical tests were conducted in a simulated body fluid to model the environment in which medical implants operate. The mechanical properties of the alloy were tested before and after processing using compression tests. The billets processed with a 30° twist angle demonstrated superior mechanical and corrosion resistance compared to those processed with a 40° die. A 66% reduction in grain size was found in billets processed for 4 passes using the 30°-die as compared to the as-annealed condition. Billets processed for 4 and 8 passes showed ultimate compressive strength improvements of 23% and 31%, respectively compared to the as-annealed condition. The 8-pass processed sample using the 30° twist ring die showed 76% improvement in the corrosion rate compared to the as-annealed state. Furthermore, billets processed for 4 passes showed corrosion resistance and ultimate compressive strength improvements of 108% and 23%; respectively compared to the as-annealed condition. These findings imply that the developed MCSTE process can be adopted for industrial use, especially in the manufacturing of biodegradable magnesium alloys for medical implants.

Enhancement of the Shear Capacity of RC Deep Beams with Ultra-High Performance Fiber-reinforced Concrete

This research investigates the shear behavior of Reinforced Concrete (RC) deep beams strengthened with Ultra-High-Performance Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (UHPFRC). For this purpose, eight RC deep beams were fabricated and tested for failure. One beam served as a control beam (un-strengthened), while the remaining seven deep beams were strengthened utilizing various strengthening schemes. This experimental study primarily focused on the thickness of the UHPFRC layer, Steel Fiber (SF) volume fraction, and strengthening schemes (jacketing, bilateral layers, and strips exclusively in the shear zone). The experimental findings demonstrated that UHPFRC significantly enhanced the shear capacity, toughness, and stiffness of the RC deep beams. The performance of the strengthened beams exhibited improvements in ultimate shear strength, stiffness, and toughness of about 43.6%, 102.2%, and 171.3%, respectively, higher than that of the un-strengthened deep beam. UHPFRC U-jacketing is a highly effective method for strengthening the RC deep beams. Incorporating SF into the UHPFRC mixture improved the shear properties of the strengthened specimens and delayed fracture propagation. Finally, the shear capacity of the strengthened specimens was compared to the values predicted by the analytical approaches presented in earlier research.

Effects of Progressive Resistance Training After Hip Fracture: A Systematic Review

Hip fracture presents high morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Some programs have focused on the effect of progressive strength work on post-hip fracture recovery. Therefore, the objective of this systematic review was to understand the effect of a progressive resistance training program on different variables in adults after hip fracture. This review includes randomized controlled trials that apply progressive strength programs in subjects after a hip fracture. The selected databases are PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Ebsco. A total of 7 studies were selected after screening. These studies were published between 2005 and 2022. Most of the research included adults over 65 years of age, showing a mean age of 77.80 years. In the majority of cases, the programs are applied between 3 and 12 months post-fracture. The most commonly applied intervention time is 3 months. The intervention time of the programs typically lasts for 3 months and includes 3–4 lower limb exercises involving, mainly hip and knee movements. All the investigations assess functional capacity and nearly all research the strength. It is shown that the intensity of strength work progresses from 60 to 80% of 1RM. Progressive strength training programs in post-hip fracture patients generally show an improvement in functional capacity, strength, balance, walking speed, flexibility, and cardiorespiratory fitness. However, the effects on independence, quality of life, self-reported physical disability, depression, and cognitive ability do not show conclusive results, and there is little research in this regard.

Enhancing mechanical and thermal properties of bio-composites: Synergistic integration of ZnO nanofillers and nanocrystalline cellulose into durian seed starch matrix.

The increasing demand for sustainable materials necessitates advancements in bio-composites with enhanced properties. This study addresses the limitations of Durio zibethinus Murr (DZM) seed starch bio-composites, particularly their poor mechanical strength and thermal stability. Using solution casting, zinc oxide (ZnO) nanofillers and nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) were incorporated into the starch matrix. The optimized composite with 0.4g ZnO exhibited a significant improvement in crystallinity (79.40%), tensile strength (0.44MPa), and thermal stability (15.54% residual mass). These findings highlight the potential of the developed bio-nanocomposites for applications in food packaging and medical devices, combining enhanced durability with environmental sustainability.

Aramid nanofibers at ultralow loadings: driving significant multifunctionality in epoxy composite dielectrics

Epoxy dielectrics with superior insulation, mechanical, and thermal performance are of great interest for electrical equipment and power electronics. However, integrating these excellent advantages into epoxy presents a formidable challenge. Herein, we detail a simple yet effective strategy for the concurrent enhancement of the dielectric breakdown strength, mechanical toughness, mechanical strength, and the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the epoxy dielectrics by incorporation of a minimal amount of aramid nanofibers (ANFs). It is revealed that a robust interfacial interaction is established between epoxy matrix and the high aspect ratio of ANFs as corroborated by both molecular dynamics simulations and dielectric relaxation spectroscopy. The strong interaction facilitates an optimized interface that enables efficient transfer of interfacial stress and energy dissipation, in turn conferring the ANFs/Epoxy with exceptional mechanical strength (up to 75.68 MPa) and toughness (195 MJ/m3) as well as high Tg (155 °C), respectively. Furthermore, the incorporation of ANFs introduces a multitude of deep traps which effectively impede the migration of charge carriers, contributing to a substantial improvement of the dielectric breakdown strength (196.8 kV/mm) of the ANFs/Epoxy composite, which is almost 4.1 times higher than that of epoxy.

Performance of circular CFST columns strengthened with CFRP grid-reinforced ECC under axial compression: Numerical modelling and design

This paper describes a detailed numerical investigation using finite element models validated against test results from an experimental investigation on concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) columns strengthened with carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) textile grid-reinforced engineered cementitious composite (ECC). The three-dimensional model incorporates the confinement effects provided by the ECC, CFRP grid layers, and the circular tube. The validated model is used to evaluate the performance of strengthened CFST short columns through parametric assessments covering different geometric and material properties. Range analysis is applied in an orthogonal design to evaluate the relative significance of key parameters influencing the ultimate axial strength of the column member. The findings reveal a nearly 24 % increase in ultimate strength and over a 42 % enhancement in the residual strength of the concrete core due to the strengthening configuration. Additionally, the composite action of the CFRP grid-reinforced ECC leads to a 13 % increase in ultimate axial strength and over a 28 % improvement in the residual strength of the CFST column. The tube diameter is shown to have the greatest impact on the column axial resistance, followed by ECC thickness, ECC compressive strength, core concrete compressive strength, tube yield strength, tube thickness, and the number of CFRP grid layers. Finally, a simplified design model, which is supported by the experimental and numerical results, is introduced for the prediction of the compressive capacity of strengthened circular CFST columns.

Improvement of work-hardening capability and strength of FeNiCoCr-based high-entropy alloys by modulation of stacking fault energy and precipitation phase

Improvement of work-hardening capability and strength of FeNiCoCr-based high-entropy alloys by modulation of stacking fault energy and precipitation phase

EVALUATING THE TENSILE AND IMPACT STRENGTH OF SOLUTION HEAT TREATED AL6061/2%GR/0-6%AL₂O₃ COMPOSITES FOR PISTON APPLICATIONS

This research evaluates the tensile and impact strength of Solution Heat Treated (SHT) Al6061/2%Gr/0-6%Al₂O₃ composites for piston applications. The associated mechanical loads on the piston crown may have severe consequences of lowered tensile strength and toughness value, which had led to overheating, leakage of oil with smoking exhaust; high fuel consumption rate and reduction in speed may have resulted into engine failure. The aim of the study is to examine the effect of varying amounts of Al₂O₃ (0%, 2%, 4% and 6%) on the tensile and impact strength of Al6061/2%Gr composites processed through solution heat treatment (SHT) that will be used as piston material; to evaluate the effect of solution hating and ageing temperatures on the composites and compare with the control sample. The Alumina powder (99.5% purity) was employed to strengthen the Al6061/Gr dual matrix composites and also improve its mechanical properties. Solution heat treatment was conducted at varying temperatures (400°C, 500°C, 600°C) and durations (1, 1.5, 2 hours), followed by ageing at varying temperatures (150°C, 175°C, 200°C) and durations (2, 4, 6 hours). The factors and optimal levels were identified using Minitab Result. The Taguchi L9 Orthogonal Array in Minitab was run using the factors and levels. The mechanical properties were evaluated through tensile and impact testing. The results reveal significant improvements in tensile and impact strength with higher Al₂O₃ content, offering insights into their suitability for high-stress applications, such as pistons.